A sharp sore throat dubbed “razor blade throat” is gaining attention as a key symptom of the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1. Though the World Health Organization says global risk remains low, the variant now accounts for 37% of U.S. cases.
NB.1.8.1 may spread faster and better evade immunity than previous strains. Symptoms mirror earlier variants, including fever, cough, fatigue, and severe sore throat. The most common strain, LP.8.1, slightly leads NB.1.8.1 in prevalence at 38%.
Vaccines remain effective, but recent changes to U.S. vaccination policy may limit access, especially for healthy children and pregnant women.
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